2008 BMW X3 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (231 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2008 BMW X3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | 420 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3080 mm |
